This is the first year Dr Ian Jackson has led a walk around the waterways of Milford and Makeney for the Belper North Mill Trust. The River Derwent powered watermills, of many types, for hundreds of years before the Strutts arrived in the 1780s. They further developed the weirs and waterways for their textile mill, bleaching and dyeworks and iron foundry in Milford, including the early introduction of hydroelectric turbines for lighting and power c.1900. In addition to a rich history, including patent disputes in the 1500’s, hydroelectric power is still being produced today, using a new turbine installed in 2020 (a challenging project).

A largely flat walk alongside the river is about 2 hours.

Venue: Wheel pit behind the Elephant and Peacock, Milford
Time: 10.30am – 12.30pm
Cost: Adults £7.86, Children under 16 free
Booking: With the Belper North Mill Trust events page